Pyongyang: A heat wave has gripped North Korea, pushing temperatures as high as 40 C in some regions, with Pyongyang hit by tropical nights for days, state media reported Monday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) indicated that Pyongyang and the provinces of Phyongan and Jagang would see daytime highs between 35 and 40 C. In the capital, Monday's low was 28 C, which is five degrees above average, with the daytime high reaching 35 C. Pyongyang has seen no relief at night either, as temperatures have not dropped below 25 C since last Monday. This marks a stretch of tropical nights, defined as nights when temperatures remain above 25 C between 6:01 p.m. and 9 a.m. the following day.

The Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, urged citizens to avoid outdoor activities during the day to prevent heat-related illnesses. It also advised farmers on methods to protect crops from the heat and high humidity. Meanwhile, Korean Central Television showed crowds visiting beaches and swimming pools at the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone on the east coast. This area has attracted tens of thousands of visitors since reopening for its second season on July 1.